The Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera — a 600-metre-deep natural amphitheatre whose floor supports an astonishing density of wildlife, including lions, elephants, hippos, flamingos and one of Tanzania’s best chances of seeing endangered black rhino. The surrounding highlands are home to Maasai communities who still graze cattle on the crater rim.
The crater floor holds one of the highest densities of wildlife in Africa, visible from a single day’s game drive: lion, elephant, buffalo, hippo and, with some luck, endangered black rhino.
Best time to visit
Year-round game viewing thanks to permanent water. Dry season (June–October) offers the clearest views; mornings on the crater floor are magical at any time of year.
How to experience it with us
Visit on a full day trip from Arusha (from $340 per person) or as the highlight of any Northern Circuit safari, usually paired with the Serengeti.